GREENVILLE, N.C. – Gardner-Webb fell to Charlotte, 3-0, in the opening match of the 2018 Pirate Invitational, hosted by East Carolina at Minges Coliseum in Greenville, N.C.
 
Gardner-Webb (3-4) dropped the first set to Charlotte (6-4) by a 25-21 score, and the 49ers would take the remaining sets by scores of 25-15 and 25-23.
 
The Runnin' Bulldogs had 30 kills on 92 attempts for a .141 attack percentage, while Charlotte tallied 39 kills on 88 swings for a .307 attacking percentage.
 
"This was not our best effort today," stated GWU head coach Leo Sayles.  "We struggled offensively early, and we did not adapt to the conditions or the situations presented to us.  I credit Maya Jeffcoat-Troy and Alexandria Roycraft for giving us a solid lift off of the bench, which shows our depth.  I think our players are very focused on redeeming themselves tomorrow."
 
Maria Emmick was the leading attacker for GWU, collecting nine kills on 22 swings.  Amanda Sahm had team-best 13 assists on the day.  Charissa Coleman had 11 digs to lead the 'Dogs, while Emmick also had a solo block.
 
Molly Shaw led the Charlotte attack with 10 smashes on 28 attempts.  Nya Steele had a match-high 32 assists, while Yumi Garcia collected 18 digs and Jocelyn Stoner had one solo block and two block assists to lead the 49ers.
 
Gardner-Webb returns to action tomorrow at noon to take on tournament host East Carolina as the 2018 Pirate Invitational continues.